Masters Degree Online Programs

The term “engineer” is derived from the Latin root “ingenium,” meaning “cleverness”. Being clever certainly applies to this STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) field, as it takes a truly clever person to apply the latest technical, scientific, and mathematical knowledge to design and implement a desired objective or invention. In other words, it took a clever person named Martin Cooper, then an electrical engineer at Motorola, to figure out what used to be a gimmick on Star Trek, the communicator, and create the first cell phone. Science degrees offer an entry into this futuristic world.

Still, engineers are one of the four STEM fields that the nation is going through a severe shortage of. As such, there are now all manner of government and private financial aid, grants, and scholarships being offered. This influx is an attempt to fill what was once called the “brain drain” and now, or at least in a state of the union address by former President George W. Bush, is bordering on a crisis.If you are interested in getting more information about federal grants research the internet.

Overall, the Bureau extrapolates the country will need an additional 11% over the next decade, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Currently there are 1.6 million engineers in the country. Civil engineers compose the largest share in the field, at 278,000. Second is mechanical (238,000) and then electrical (214,000). In all, the Bureau of Labor Statistics lists 18 different specialties.

Admittedly, there are certain engineering specialties where there are currently a few too many, such as mechanical or manufacturing, yet the numbers are below the national average. Currently, they have an 8% unemployment rate. Countering this, Microsoft’s Bill Gates went on record that the computer industry is suffering a severe shortage of experienced electrical and computer engineers, and the company is putting up scholarship money to create more. If you are interested in getting more information about online college grant research the internet.

The overall job opportunities in engineering are expected to be good. Prospects are considered excellent in certain specialties, such as computer and petroleum engineering. In addition to job growth, many openings will be created by the need to replace current engineers who retire; transfer to management, sales, or other occupations; or leave engineering for other reasons.

What’s also important is that those in the engineering profession stay current with their specialty. Innovations come at a rate that can cause future shock. An engineer who isn’t constantly taking online college courses and seminars soon finds themselves falling behind the pack. Quite simply, a Bachelor degree isn’t enough anymore. A good engineer usually can find a way to work-study with an online college towards a Masters and even a PhD.

The BLS states the median salary for engineers of all stripes is about $81,000. Their employment packages also include educational financial aid, medical/health insurance, and all manner of financial incentives. The rewards are certainly worth it. The bottom level agricultural and marine engineer earns a minimum of $43,000+ while the top end engineers, such as petroleum, moves towards $150,000. For an abundance of information about pell grants check out the web.

So think about Martin Cooper as you pick up your cell phone. The next such invention is probably waiting in the wings, waiting for an engineer to make it work, an engineer who started with science degrees. Corporations, institutions and the government are looking to help those who want to get into these fields with grants, scholarships and college loans. These are exciting times and you’re going to want to be a part of the growth.